Speedy set pieces and 20-minute red cards: have rugby's changes worked?Rugby union's law book is constantly evolving, impacting the game play and viewer experience.
Warren Gatland quits as Wales coach ahead of Ireland Six Nations clashWarren Gatland has stepped down as Wales head coach during the Six Nations Championship.
Dupont's return heralds fizzing new era for what could be a spectacular Six Nations | Robert KitsonRugby union's Six Nations remains a unifying event despite evolving media dynamics.The sport faces challenges in keeping young audiences engaged and relevant.Upcoming broadcasting deals could shape the future of rugby's accessibility.
Six possible selections to shake up England squadEngland's Six Nations squad may feature fresh, impactful players like Willis and Ojomoh to address past performance issues.
Maro Itoje calls for Six Nations to stay on free-to-air TV to grow the gameMaro Itoje emphasizes the importance of keeping the Six Nations championship on free-to-air TV for greater fan accessibility.
Speedy set pieces and 20-minute red cards: have rugby's changes worked?Rugby union's law book is constantly evolving, impacting the game play and viewer experience.
Warren Gatland quits as Wales coach ahead of Ireland Six Nations clashWarren Gatland has stepped down as Wales head coach during the Six Nations Championship.
Dupont's return heralds fizzing new era for what could be a spectacular Six Nations | Robert KitsonRugby union's Six Nations remains a unifying event despite evolving media dynamics.The sport faces challenges in keeping young audiences engaged and relevant.Upcoming broadcasting deals could shape the future of rugby's accessibility.
Six possible selections to shake up England squadEngland's Six Nations squad may feature fresh, impactful players like Willis and Ojomoh to address past performance issues.
Maro Itoje calls for Six Nations to stay on free-to-air TV to grow the gameMaro Itoje emphasizes the importance of keeping the Six Nations championship on free-to-air TV for greater fan accessibility.
Uncertainty over 400m of Covid loans yet to be paid backThere is substantial uncertainty over the repayment of loans given to sports bodies during the Covid pandemic, as highlighted by the Public Accounts Committee.
Quins centre Joseph to join Gloucester next seasonWill Joseph will join Gloucester from Harlequins at the end of the Premiership season, expressing excitement about the club's direction.
Gloucester comfortably beat scoreless HarlequinsGloucester secured a decisive 14-0 victory over Harlequins, showcasing their dominant play despite missed scoring opportunities.Harlequins faced their first scoreless match in over a decade, indicating serious offensive deficiencies.
Quins centre Joseph to join Gloucester next seasonWill Joseph will join Gloucester from Harlequins at the end of the Premiership season, expressing excitement about the club's direction.
Gloucester comfortably beat scoreless HarlequinsGloucester secured a decisive 14-0 victory over Harlequins, showcasing their dominant play despite missed scoring opportunities.Harlequins faced their first scoreless match in over a decade, indicating serious offensive deficiencies.
Will rugby modernisation plans go through or will they get the red card? | Andy BullRugby union transitioned to professionalism in 1994, marking a pivotal era in its development.The sport is still in the early stages of defining its future in the professional realm.
German rugby aims to punch ticket to first World Cup DW 01/29/2025Germany's rugby team has a unique opportunity to qualify for the 2027 World Cup through the European Championship in 2025.
Will rugby modernisation plans go through or will they get the red card? | Andy BullRugby union transitioned to professionalism in 1994, marking a pivotal era in its development.The sport is still in the early stages of defining its future in the professional realm.
German rugby aims to punch ticket to first World Cup DW 01/29/2025Germany's rugby team has a unique opportunity to qualify for the 2027 World Cup through the European Championship in 2025.
Chessum back in only England change for Six Nations clash with ScotlandOllie Chessum makes his first England start in 11 months, improving the team’s lineout ahead of facing Scotland.
Alex Nankivell set for lengthy spell on sidelines in major injury blow for MunsterMunster's injury woes are significantly impacting team dynamics and upcoming matches.
Chessum back in only England change for Six Nations clash with ScotlandOllie Chessum makes his first England start in 11 months, improving the team’s lineout ahead of facing Scotland.
Alex Nankivell set for lengthy spell on sidelines in major injury blow for MunsterMunster's injury woes are significantly impacting team dynamics and upcoming matches.
Ruaidhri O'Connor: After sudden exits, unpopular calls and poor communication Munster must act now to prevent a lost seasonMunster's recent struggles diminish their confidence and mark a significant transition with the departure of coach Graham Rowntree.
'Would it be my dream job?' - Mike Prendergast believes French lessons have prepared him for Munster head coach roleGraham Rowntree's successor at Munster may already be on the coaching staff, with Prendergast a strong candidate for the top job.
Ruaidhri O'Connor: After sudden exits, unpopular calls and poor communication Munster must act now to prevent a lost seasonMunster's recent struggles diminish their confidence and mark a significant transition with the departure of coach Graham Rowntree.
'Would it be my dream job?' - Mike Prendergast believes French lessons have prepared him for Munster head coach roleGraham Rowntree's successor at Munster may already be on the coaching staff, with Prendergast a strong candidate for the top job.
fromwww.theguardian.com1 month agoScotland's Gregor Townsend questions England's crucial penalty decisionScotland's players feel officiating decisions may have cost them a win in the Calcutta Cup.
Back-row Tuipulotu joins Saracens on short loanCarwyn Tuipulotu joins Saracens on loan to strengthen their squad during the upcoming Premiership Rugby Cup.
Saracens start season with win at GloucesterSaracens delivered an impressive 35-26 victory against Gloucester in their Premiership opener, with standout performances from debutants and returning players.
Onyeama-Christie's double gives Saracens opening win at GloucesterSaracens efficiently adjusted to life without Owen Farrell, demonstrating depth and potential in their squad with key players stepping up.
Malins to rejoin Saracens from Bristol BearsMax Malins will return to Saracens from Bristol Bears after the 2024-25 season, having enjoyed his time there despite injuries.
Wales full-back Williams rejoins SaracensLiam Williams returns to Saracens after leaving Kubota Spears, marking a significant move as he prepares for fatherhood and a potential national team return.
Exeter Chiefs beat Saracens to go top of PWR tableExeter Chiefs overcame Saracens 29-12 to lead the Premiership Women's Rugby league for the first time this season.
Back-row Tuipulotu joins Saracens on short loanCarwyn Tuipulotu joins Saracens on loan to strengthen their squad during the upcoming Premiership Rugby Cup.
Saracens start season with win at GloucesterSaracens delivered an impressive 35-26 victory against Gloucester in their Premiership opener, with standout performances from debutants and returning players.
Onyeama-Christie's double gives Saracens opening win at GloucesterSaracens efficiently adjusted to life without Owen Farrell, demonstrating depth and potential in their squad with key players stepping up.
Malins to rejoin Saracens from Bristol BearsMax Malins will return to Saracens from Bristol Bears after the 2024-25 season, having enjoyed his time there despite injuries.
Wales full-back Williams rejoins SaracensLiam Williams returns to Saracens after leaving Kubota Spears, marking a significant move as he prepares for fatherhood and a potential national team return.
Exeter Chiefs beat Saracens to go top of PWR tableExeter Chiefs overcame Saracens 29-12 to lead the Premiership Women's Rugby league for the first time this season.
Du Toit stars as Bath keep hopes alive with Champions Cup win over ClermontBath boosts Champions Cup qualification hopes with a crucial victory, needing to perform well in upcoming matches.
Qatar Airways agrees 80m sponsorship deal for rugby union's Nations ChampionshipQatar Airways' sponsorship emphasizes rugby's push for Middle Eastern investment.
Brian Moore: Andy Farrell must pick Lions coaching staff that make non-Irish players feel they have fair chanceThe Lions tour requires blending diverse styles and cultures for a successful team cohesion.
Warren Gatland is turning into the fall guy for all the failings of Welsh rugby | Andy BullWales rugby faces a steep decline with 11 consecutive Test defeats, raising concerns about the team's future performance against South Africa.
Warren Gatland willing to step down after Australia mauling if best for Wales'Gatland is willing to step down but remains committed to leading Wales despite the team's struggles.
Saracens sign Wales international JohnNatalia John, a Wales international, joins Saracens after being without a club since Worcester collapsed, looking forward to the challenges ahead.
Warren Gatland is turning into the fall guy for all the failings of Welsh rugby | Andy BullWales rugby faces a steep decline with 11 consecutive Test defeats, raising concerns about the team's future performance against South Africa.
Warren Gatland willing to step down after Australia mauling if best for Wales'Gatland is willing to step down but remains committed to leading Wales despite the team's struggles.
Saracens sign Wales international JohnNatalia John, a Wales international, joins Saracens after being without a club since Worcester collapsed, looking forward to the challenges ahead.
The Breakdown awards: best rugby matches, players and quotes of 2024Antoine Dupont and rising talents exemplify excellence in rugby, reflecting a vibrant future for the sport.
Ex-captain Lewies signs new Harlequins contractStephan Lewies extends his contract with Harlequins after overcoming injury challenges, emphasizing his happiness and commitment to the club.
Care in as Harlequins change eight to face StormersHarlequins aim for their first win in the Investec Champions Cup by making significant lineup changes ahead of facing the Stormers.
Evans double sees Harlequins extend Exeter miseryHarlequins defeated Exeter 36-19, marking Exeter's sixth consecutive loss in the Premiership.
Francois van Wyk and buoyant Bath snatch electrifying win over HarlequinsBath's dramatic victory over Harlequins showcases their determination and potential as title contenders this season.
Ford boots Sale to opening-day win over HarlequinsSale Sharks won a close match against Harlequins 12-11, demonstrating resilience and strategic play under challenging weather conditions.
Ex-captain Lewies signs new Harlequins contractStephan Lewies extends his contract with Harlequins after overcoming injury challenges, emphasizing his happiness and commitment to the club.
Care in as Harlequins change eight to face StormersHarlequins aim for their first win in the Investec Champions Cup by making significant lineup changes ahead of facing the Stormers.
Evans double sees Harlequins extend Exeter miseryHarlequins defeated Exeter 36-19, marking Exeter's sixth consecutive loss in the Premiership.
Francois van Wyk and buoyant Bath snatch electrifying win over HarlequinsBath's dramatic victory over Harlequins showcases their determination and potential as title contenders this season.
Ford boots Sale to opening-day win over HarlequinsSale Sharks won a close match against Harlequins 12-11, demonstrating resilience and strategic play under challenging weather conditions.
Wallabies star Jordan Petaia walks away from rugby union to chase NFL dreamJordan Petaia is transitioning from rugby union to NFL through the International Player Pathway program, seizing a long-held dream.
Rugby's escort' crackdown prompts disgruntled Borthwick to change tack | Robert KitsonSteve Borthwick warns against new refereeing rules that could change the nature of rugby, fearing it may turn the sport into something resembling Aussie Rules.
Rugby brain injury lawsuit stuck in legal limbo and players are still sufferingThe struggle for recognition of CTE risks in rugby has been led by players like Alix Popham, supported by advocates like Bennet Omalu.
Borthwick faces up to South Africa in defining test of England's character | Robert KitsonRugby union faces a financial crisis amidst instability from proposed breakaway leagues, affecting teams like England as they prepare for key matches.
England's Ellie Kildunne named World Rugby women's player of the yearEllie Kildunne has been named World Rugby women's player of the year, recognized for her incredible performance and contribution in the sport.
Borthwick faces up to South Africa in defining test of England's character | Robert KitsonRugby union faces a financial crisis amidst instability from proposed breakaway leagues, affecting teams like England as they prepare for key matches.
England's Ellie Kildunne named World Rugby women's player of the yearEllie Kildunne has been named World Rugby women's player of the year, recognized for her incredible performance and contribution in the sport.
Canadian women move up to No. 2 behind England in World Rugby rankings after win over France | CBC SportsCanada's win over France elevates them to second in women’s rugby rankings, reflecting their improvement and competitiveness.New Zealand's drop to third demonstrates the volatility in women's rugby rankings following recent matches.
The Breakdown | Rugby is crying out for fresh global vision in crucial leadership voteWorld Rugby's presidential election features three candidates, with Brett Robinson considered the frontrunner, and highlights the need for change in the organization.
Joseph Sua'ali'i joins Skelton and Kerevi in Wallabies squad for UK and Ireland tourJoseph Sua'ali'i is set to make his Wallabies debut on the end-of-season tour against England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.
'I don't know if I'd be there yet' - Paul O'Connell plays down idea of Lions role and says Andy Farrell's sabbatical will be 'great' for IrelandPaul O'Connell expresses reservations about coaching, emphasizing the difficulty of Lions coaching and the skill required to simplify the game.
Uncertainty over 400m of Covid loans yet to be paid backThere is substantial uncertainty over the repayment of loans given to sports bodies during the Covid pandemic, as highlighted by the Public Accounts Committee.
Quins centre Joseph to join Gloucester next seasonWill Joseph will join Gloucester from Harlequins at the end of the Premiership season, expressing excitement about the club's direction.
Gloucester comfortably beat scoreless HarlequinsGloucester secured a decisive 14-0 victory over Harlequins, showcasing their dominant play despite missed scoring opportunities.Harlequins faced their first scoreless match in over a decade, indicating serious offensive deficiencies.
Quins centre Joseph to join Gloucester next seasonWill Joseph will join Gloucester from Harlequins at the end of the Premiership season, expressing excitement about the club's direction.
Gloucester comfortably beat scoreless HarlequinsGloucester secured a decisive 14-0 victory over Harlequins, showcasing their dominant play despite missed scoring opportunities.Harlequins faced their first scoreless match in over a decade, indicating serious offensive deficiencies.
Back-row Tuipulotu joins Saracens on short loanCarwyn Tuipulotu joins Saracens on loan to strengthen their squad during the upcoming Premiership Rugby Cup.
Saracens start season with win at GloucesterSaracens delivered an impressive 35-26 victory against Gloucester in their Premiership opener, with standout performances from debutants and returning players.
Onyeama-Christie's double gives Saracens opening win at GloucesterSaracens efficiently adjusted to life without Owen Farrell, demonstrating depth and potential in their squad with key players stepping up.
Malins to rejoin Saracens from Bristol BearsMax Malins will return to Saracens from Bristol Bears after the 2024-25 season, having enjoyed his time there despite injuries.
Wales full-back Williams rejoins SaracensLiam Williams returns to Saracens after leaving Kubota Spears, marking a significant move as he prepares for fatherhood and a potential national team return.
Exeter Chiefs beat Saracens to go top of PWR tableExeter Chiefs overcame Saracens 29-12 to lead the Premiership Women's Rugby league for the first time this season.
Back-row Tuipulotu joins Saracens on short loanCarwyn Tuipulotu joins Saracens on loan to strengthen their squad during the upcoming Premiership Rugby Cup.
Saracens start season with win at GloucesterSaracens delivered an impressive 35-26 victory against Gloucester in their Premiership opener, with standout performances from debutants and returning players.
Onyeama-Christie's double gives Saracens opening win at GloucesterSaracens efficiently adjusted to life without Owen Farrell, demonstrating depth and potential in their squad with key players stepping up.
Malins to rejoin Saracens from Bristol BearsMax Malins will return to Saracens from Bristol Bears after the 2024-25 season, having enjoyed his time there despite injuries.
Wales full-back Williams rejoins SaracensLiam Williams returns to Saracens after leaving Kubota Spears, marking a significant move as he prepares for fatherhood and a potential national team return.
Exeter Chiefs beat Saracens to go top of PWR tableExeter Chiefs overcame Saracens 29-12 to lead the Premiership Women's Rugby league for the first time this season.
Will rugby modernisation plans go through or will they get the red card? | Andy BullRugby union transitioned to professionalism in 1994, marking a pivotal era in its development.The sport is still in the early stages of defining its future in the professional realm.
German rugby aims to punch ticket to first World Cup DW 01/29/2025Germany's rugby team has a unique opportunity to qualify for the 2027 World Cup through the European Championship in 2025.
Will rugby modernisation plans go through or will they get the red card? | Andy BullRugby union transitioned to professionalism in 1994, marking a pivotal era in its development.The sport is still in the early stages of defining its future in the professional realm.
German rugby aims to punch ticket to first World Cup DW 01/29/2025Germany's rugby team has a unique opportunity to qualify for the 2027 World Cup through the European Championship in 2025.
Du Toit stars as Bath keep hopes alive with Champions Cup win over ClermontBath boosts Champions Cup qualification hopes with a crucial victory, needing to perform well in upcoming matches.
Ruaidhri O'Connor: After sudden exits, unpopular calls and poor communication Munster must act now to prevent a lost seasonMunster's recent struggles diminish their confidence and mark a significant transition with the departure of coach Graham Rowntree.
'Would it be my dream job?' - Mike Prendergast believes French lessons have prepared him for Munster head coach roleGraham Rowntree's successor at Munster may already be on the coaching staff, with Prendergast a strong candidate for the top job.
Ruaidhri O'Connor: After sudden exits, unpopular calls and poor communication Munster must act now to prevent a lost seasonMunster's recent struggles diminish their confidence and mark a significant transition with the departure of coach Graham Rowntree.
'Would it be my dream job?' - Mike Prendergast believes French lessons have prepared him for Munster head coach roleGraham Rowntree's successor at Munster may already be on the coaching staff, with Prendergast a strong candidate for the top job.
Qatar Airways agrees 80m sponsorship deal for rugby union's Nations ChampionshipQatar Airways' sponsorship emphasizes rugby's push for Middle Eastern investment.
The Breakdown awards: best rugby matches, players and quotes of 2024Antoine Dupont and rising talents exemplify excellence in rugby, reflecting a vibrant future for the sport.
Speedy set pieces and 20-minute red cards: have rugby's changes worked?Rugby union's law book is constantly evolving, impacting the game play and viewer experience.
Warren Gatland quits as Wales coach ahead of Ireland Six Nations clashWarren Gatland has stepped down as Wales head coach during the Six Nations Championship.
Dupont's return heralds fizzing new era for what could be a spectacular Six Nations | Robert KitsonRugby union's Six Nations remains a unifying event despite evolving media dynamics.The sport faces challenges in keeping young audiences engaged and relevant.Upcoming broadcasting deals could shape the future of rugby's accessibility.
Six possible selections to shake up England squadEngland's Six Nations squad may feature fresh, impactful players like Willis and Ojomoh to address past performance issues.
Maro Itoje calls for Six Nations to stay on free-to-air TV to grow the gameMaro Itoje emphasizes the importance of keeping the Six Nations championship on free-to-air TV for greater fan accessibility.
Speedy set pieces and 20-minute red cards: have rugby's changes worked?Rugby union's law book is constantly evolving, impacting the game play and viewer experience.
Warren Gatland quits as Wales coach ahead of Ireland Six Nations clashWarren Gatland has stepped down as Wales head coach during the Six Nations Championship.
Dupont's return heralds fizzing new era for what could be a spectacular Six Nations | Robert KitsonRugby union's Six Nations remains a unifying event despite evolving media dynamics.The sport faces challenges in keeping young audiences engaged and relevant.Upcoming broadcasting deals could shape the future of rugby's accessibility.
Six possible selections to shake up England squadEngland's Six Nations squad may feature fresh, impactful players like Willis and Ojomoh to address past performance issues.
Maro Itoje calls for Six Nations to stay on free-to-air TV to grow the gameMaro Itoje emphasizes the importance of keeping the Six Nations championship on free-to-air TV for greater fan accessibility.
Brian Moore: Andy Farrell must pick Lions coaching staff that make non-Irish players feel they have fair chanceThe Lions tour requires blending diverse styles and cultures for a successful team cohesion.
Wallabies star Jordan Petaia walks away from rugby union to chase NFL dreamJordan Petaia is transitioning from rugby union to NFL through the International Player Pathway program, seizing a long-held dream.
Chessum back in only England change for Six Nations clash with ScotlandOllie Chessum makes his first England start in 11 months, improving the team’s lineout ahead of facing Scotland.
Alex Nankivell set for lengthy spell on sidelines in major injury blow for MunsterMunster's injury woes are significantly impacting team dynamics and upcoming matches.
Chessum back in only England change for Six Nations clash with ScotlandOllie Chessum makes his first England start in 11 months, improving the team’s lineout ahead of facing Scotland.
Alex Nankivell set for lengthy spell on sidelines in major injury blow for MunsterMunster's injury woes are significantly impacting team dynamics and upcoming matches.
Warren Gatland is turning into the fall guy for all the failings of Welsh rugby | Andy BullWales rugby faces a steep decline with 11 consecutive Test defeats, raising concerns about the team's future performance against South Africa.
Warren Gatland willing to step down after Australia mauling if best for Wales'Gatland is willing to step down but remains committed to leading Wales despite the team's struggles.
Saracens sign Wales international JohnNatalia John, a Wales international, joins Saracens after being without a club since Worcester collapsed, looking forward to the challenges ahead.
Warren Gatland is turning into the fall guy for all the failings of Welsh rugby | Andy BullWales rugby faces a steep decline with 11 consecutive Test defeats, raising concerns about the team's future performance against South Africa.
Warren Gatland willing to step down after Australia mauling if best for Wales'Gatland is willing to step down but remains committed to leading Wales despite the team's struggles.
Saracens sign Wales international JohnNatalia John, a Wales international, joins Saracens after being without a club since Worcester collapsed, looking forward to the challenges ahead.
fromwww.theguardian.com1 month agoScotland's Gregor Townsend questions England's crucial penalty decisionScotland's players feel officiating decisions may have cost them a win in the Calcutta Cup.
Ex-captain Lewies signs new Harlequins contractStephan Lewies extends his contract with Harlequins after overcoming injury challenges, emphasizing his happiness and commitment to the club.
Care in as Harlequins change eight to face StormersHarlequins aim for their first win in the Investec Champions Cup by making significant lineup changes ahead of facing the Stormers.
Evans double sees Harlequins extend Exeter miseryHarlequins defeated Exeter 36-19, marking Exeter's sixth consecutive loss in the Premiership.
Francois van Wyk and buoyant Bath snatch electrifying win over HarlequinsBath's dramatic victory over Harlequins showcases their determination and potential as title contenders this season.
Ford boots Sale to opening-day win over HarlequinsSale Sharks won a close match against Harlequins 12-11, demonstrating resilience and strategic play under challenging weather conditions.
Ex-captain Lewies signs new Harlequins contractStephan Lewies extends his contract with Harlequins after overcoming injury challenges, emphasizing his happiness and commitment to the club.
Care in as Harlequins change eight to face StormersHarlequins aim for their first win in the Investec Champions Cup by making significant lineup changes ahead of facing the Stormers.
Evans double sees Harlequins extend Exeter miseryHarlequins defeated Exeter 36-19, marking Exeter's sixth consecutive loss in the Premiership.
Francois van Wyk and buoyant Bath snatch electrifying win over HarlequinsBath's dramatic victory over Harlequins showcases their determination and potential as title contenders this season.
Ford boots Sale to opening-day win over HarlequinsSale Sharks won a close match against Harlequins 12-11, demonstrating resilience and strategic play under challenging weather conditions.
Borthwick faces up to South Africa in defining test of England's character | Robert KitsonRugby union faces a financial crisis amidst instability from proposed breakaway leagues, affecting teams like England as they prepare for key matches.
England's Ellie Kildunne named World Rugby women's player of the yearEllie Kildunne has been named World Rugby women's player of the year, recognized for her incredible performance and contribution in the sport.
Borthwick faces up to South Africa in defining test of England's character | Robert KitsonRugby union faces a financial crisis amidst instability from proposed breakaway leagues, affecting teams like England as they prepare for key matches.
England's Ellie Kildunne named World Rugby women's player of the yearEllie Kildunne has been named World Rugby women's player of the year, recognized for her incredible performance and contribution in the sport.
Rugby's escort' crackdown prompts disgruntled Borthwick to change tack | Robert KitsonSteve Borthwick warns against new refereeing rules that could change the nature of rugby, fearing it may turn the sport into something resembling Aussie Rules.
The Breakdown | Rugby is crying out for fresh global vision in crucial leadership voteWorld Rugby's presidential election features three candidates, with Brett Robinson considered the frontrunner, and highlights the need for change in the organization.
Rugby brain injury lawsuit stuck in legal limbo and players are still sufferingThe struggle for recognition of CTE risks in rugby has been led by players like Alix Popham, supported by advocates like Bennet Omalu.
Joseph Sua'ali'i joins Skelton and Kerevi in Wallabies squad for UK and Ireland tourJoseph Sua'ali'i is set to make his Wallabies debut on the end-of-season tour against England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.
'I don't know if I'd be there yet' - Paul O'Connell plays down idea of Lions role and says Andy Farrell's sabbatical will be 'great' for IrelandPaul O'Connell expresses reservations about coaching, emphasizing the difficulty of Lions coaching and the skill required to simplify the game.
Canadian women move up to No. 2 behind England in World Rugby rankings after win over France | CBC SportsCanada's win over France elevates them to second in women’s rugby rankings, reflecting their improvement and competitiveness.New Zealand's drop to third demonstrates the volatility in women's rugby rankings following recent matches.